The Thames Valley

25Apr08

Characterized as:– the most potent economic area outside London– the heart and soul of British economy– fueled by the Heathrow phenomenon that brought US software and IT companies near London– a hub for the life-sciences sector

The towns in the Valley–> Slough, now the most diverse in the UK – where 80 languages are spoken!! Home to more European corporate headquarters than Scotland, Wales and Northern Ireland combined!–> Reading, home to the headquarters of Microsoft and Oracle; one of the top 10 UK retail destinations

Challenges for the valley: to maintain its competitive edgeNeeded to be improved: infrastructure and skills